Important Points to Consider Before Taking Supplements

Just alone in the United States of America, more than half of the population take some form of supplement, spending more than U.S.$20 billion a year in an effort to help maintain good health and well-being. Around the world, more and more people are reaching to vitamin supplements to attempt to better their health.But how do consumers know that they’re spending their money on the right supplements and using them in the right dosages?

According to Edward C. Geehr**, M.D.,a member of the National Scientific and Medical Advisory Board of LifeScript, a leading provider of personalized nutritional supplements, there are certain questions consumers should ask themselves before starting a supplement program. Although most individuals can benefit from a well-designed supplement program, there are important things to consider when making decisions about supplements. Here is his list of some of the more important questions you should be asking before you begin taking supplements.

* Do I even need nutritional supplements?

There is no substitute for a well-rounded diet. Whole foods contain protein, energy and fiber that are difficult to obtain from supplements alone. Balance is the key. A good diet, coupled with a well-designed supplement program, can satisfy the dietary requirements of most people. For those on a restricted diet, however, such as vegans, athletes, body builders or dieters constantly trying to lose weight, supplements may be essential for good health. Restricted diets also diminish nutrients intake. Supplements can help fill in the nutrient gaps in diets such as these.

* Am I taking supplements to try to treat a disease or illness?

You should never treat yourself for a disease or illness with supplements. There is little or no conclusive evidence that supplements are beneficial for many serious medical conditions. Those with chronic diseases or taking prescribed medications should discuss their medical condition with their physician before taking supplements to avoid potential serious drug interactions and harmful side effects.Having said that, it is important to note that there is an emerging body of evidence suggesting that some vitamins and herbal preparations may be useful for managing certain conditions. Talk to your doctor or dietitian to get the most up-to-date and accurate information about promising dietary supplements for certain medical conditions.

* Are the supplements and the quantities I’m taking right for me?

Its always best to consult with an expert before beginning a regimen of supplements. Registered Dietitians, Certified Nutritional Specialists and physicians are all well qualified to review your diet and make supplement recommendations.

* Does it matter if my supplements are natural?

There appears to be little difference between synthetic and naturally occurring vitamins. Natural vitamins are no more effective at delivering nutrients than synthetic ones and may be much more expensive. Herbal preparations are usually naturally derived, although it may be difficult to determine the actual content or purity of the active ingredients. The most important factor is the quality and reputation of the manufacturer and whether or not assays are performed to verify the supplement ingredients.

* Will taking more of a supplement provide me with beneficial results faster?

More is not always better. Certain vitamins and minerals considered to be essential to maintaining normal health can be toxic in high doses. For example, too much vitamin A can cause liver toxicity, adversely affect bone growth, and cause yellowing of the skin and palms. In general, supplements should not be taken in amounts that exceed the daily RDI (Reference Daily Intake) unless directed by your dietitian or physician.

* Can I mix my medications with my supplements?

Some supplements may interfere with certain medications, resulting in serious side effects. The medications of greatest concern include blood pressure and heart medications, blood thinners (Coumadin or warfarin), certain antidepressants, immuno-suppressant drugs, seizure medications, certain cancer therapies, and anti-arrhythmic drugs. If you are taking any medications, check with your physician or medical specialist before taking supplements.

* Should I stop taking supplements if I’m scheduled to have surgery?

Recent reports note a higher incidence of bleeding problems (either hemorrhage or blood clots) during or after surgery in patients who were taking certain supplements. Some supplements may also interfere with anesthetics used in surgery. Its recommended that all supplements be stopped at least four weeks before surgery unless specifically permitted by your physician.

**Edward C. Geehr, MD, is a member of the National Scientific and Medical Advisory Board of LifeScript, a leading provider of personalized nutritional supplements. Dr. Geehr formerly was national Chief Medical Officer with Inpatient Consultants, and is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine, the Wilderness Medical Society (co-founder) and the National Association of Inpatient Physicians. He previously was Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine and Surgery at the University of California, San Francisco, and is a graduate of Yale University and Duke University Medical School.

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